The remake of classic cyberpunk RPG System Shock will add virtual reality support - but only if it can more than double its current funding level.

Developer Nightdive Studios acquired the rights to 1994's original System Shock in 2012, going on to release the Enhanced Edition in 2015. Shortly after, in announced plans for the current remake, which will be built from the ground up in Unity.

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The project is already ambitious, aiming to reimagine one of gaming's most renowned titles. Nightdive plans to channel the spirit of the original version - which saw players try to escape the isolated Citadel Station, a space outpost taken over by cyborgs and mutates controlled by the mad AI, SHODAN - while overhauling mechanics and visuals for the modern age. This contemporary System Shock, which is seen as a reboot to the series, also boasts the involvement of Chris Avellone, designer and director of the legendary Planescape: Torment, in its development.

Just modernising the game isn't all, though. In an update to the campaign, Nightdive outlined new stretch goals to expand the project, which include multi-language support, new characters and locations, a full orchestral score, and a remix of the original soundtrack.

The perks start getting really good at $2m though, especially if you're the creative sort. If the campaign hits that figure, Nightdive will update and release a level editor for the original 1994 System Shock, along with an open source version of the code. $2.3m will unlock mod support for the remake, available through Steam Workshop. At $2.5m, Nightdive will produce a hardcover artbook and a System Shock graphic novel, with content from Avellone.

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If the crowdfunded remake massively spikes to $3m though, then the developers will make System Shock playable in VR. The studio plans to support both Oculus Rift and HTC Vive - albeit with the caveat "Want to play System Shock in VR? Isn't it scary enough?"

As much a horror game as it is a sci-fi one, System Shock in fully immersive virtual reality would indeed be terrifying.

However, time is short to make that brilliant nightmare a reality. At time of writing, the campaign sits just shy of $1.3m with 10 hours to go. The initial target of $900,000 has been met, meaning the game will see release, and is expected to launch on PC, Mac, and Linux in December 2017. A free, playable demo is available on GOG, the Humble Store, and Steam now.